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Songs in the ESL Classroom for Younger Beginners - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Music-based learning is an effective technique to develop English proficiency within an early youth classroom. Classroom-based singing can create a fun learning environment and lead to the development of musical skills, social interaction, and English vocabulary.
Simple Rhymes
Examples of Suitable Rhyme Songs
Involving the Class
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This post was written by our ITTT graduate Patrick H.
The most effective method for younger learners is the use of various simple rhymes. Rhymes are simple in nature and may easily be adapted to the current material that is being taught. The teacher and students will benefit most from a circular seating arrangement as it allows both... [Read more]
The Synergy of AI and English Language Learning for Foreign Students - TEFL Blog
Minh Huy Hoang
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
In an era defined by technological advancements, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into education has become increasingly prevalent. One notable area where AI has made significant strides is in the realm of language learning, especially for foreign students studying English. This dynamic relationship between AI and English language acquisition has not only transformed the way individuals learn but has also opened up new possibilities for personalized and efficient learning experiences.
Tailoring Instruction to Individual Needs
Engaging Tools and Immersive Learning
Bridging Formal and Informal Learning
AI and Human Instructors: A Perfect Duo
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Learning English in Early Childhood - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
In the past, some scientists thought young learners do not learn as fast as adults. However today even parents are aware of the importance of starting learning a second language early.
Advantages of Early Start
Consider the Mix of Abilities
Choice of Activities
Nursery Rhymes
Flashcards
GamesThe Main Problems Young English Learners Face In China
Stories
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Safak Ä°.
When people start learning at early ages of their life, they increase the probability of gaining better language skills and favorable attitudes to other languages and cultures. Moreover, it will be possible for them to acquire native... [Read more]
Benefits of Music in Learning English - TEFL Blog
Hoàng Minh Huy
Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
In contemporary society, the undeniable role of music encompasses various aspects of entertainment and work. However, its impact extends even further, particularly within the realm of teaching and learning English. Beyond merely assisting educators, music also offers an effective tool for students to effortlessly enhance their English language skills. This essay delves into the multifaceted benefits that music brings to the process of learning English.
Enhancing Learning and Memory Through Music
Emotional Impact: Music's Role in Motivation
A Holistic Approach to Learning: Music's Expansive Benefits
Conclusion: The Melody of Progress
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Digital Technology for English Learning - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
The classroom, a collective space for knowledge, interaction and exchange of information, is now in a good phase with the arrival of technological resources that go far beyond the computer lab or video room.
Importance of New Technology
How to Use?
1. Teachers can better visualize the difficulties of their students
2. Class leveling can become simpler with technology in the classroom
3. Digital games related to content
Examples Of New Technology In Education:
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Iago M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
There is no denying,... [Read more]
Parental Help in Students English Learning - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
In the Chinese area, English as a compulsory course in school has to be learned by students for years. Since the government has strengthened the importance of English in Gaokao (College Entrance Examination ) these days, every Chinese family wants their children to start on English learning as early as possible. There is no need to highlight the importance of English to a Chinese family at all.
Bilingual daily life
Create English surroundings
Apply for online English course
Find a foreign teacher
Be a good example
Regular reading
Communicate with teachers
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Xiaoyu Z. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily... [Read more]
How Stories Transform English Learning in Early Childhood - TEFL Blog
Federico Riva
Destinations TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
Stories are a powerful tool for engaging students in learning. Stories are capable of meeting young learners at their level by making language concepts engaging and interesting. They provide the sort of context and emotional stakes that are important for thorough language acquisition in a subtle way that doesn't always feel like sitting at a desk and learning through drills. This is why stories are an especially important tool when it comes to teaching young learners. Stories can provide motivation to learn, real-life examples of language usage, and an out-of-classroom opportunity to continue learning.
Engaging Young Learners
Real-Life Language Usage
Fostering Independent Learning
The Enduring Power of Stories
Are you ready... [Read more]
Reasons Why Learning American English is More Common in Japan - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
British English (BrE) and American English (AmE) are two of the main varieties of the English language. There are other different varieties of English that exist such as Canadian, Australian, New Zealand, South Asian and African English.
Language Structure
1. Vocabulary and Spelling
2. Grammar
Historical Prerequisits
Diplomatic Relationships
Globalization
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Although English was introduced to America through the colonization period by the British, the two varieties of English have evolved to be quite different from each other in certain areas.
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Shanique H. Please note that this blog post might... [Read more]
The Power of Stories for English Learning in Early Childhood - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
"Our lives gain meaning only when we tell our story". -David Steindl-Rast. In our case, stories not only add meaning to our lives in general but are very important in rendering language learning interesting and creative as our specific subject essay will demonstrate. Stories are an effective model for learning the English language through which we can develop the four language skills writing, speaking, listening, and reading. So why and how stories can enable us to effectively learn the English language?
Why stories are so important for English learning in early childhood?
How stories can be important for English learning in early childhood? Or how can we use them to develop the four language skills?
Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL... [Read more]
Challenges of the French Native Speakers in English Learning - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Several surveys, such as EF (Education First), have shown that France has the worst English level in the European Union. We shall explain, firstly, why French students have problems in learning English and what these problems are. Then, secondly, we shall share solutions to these problems.
Origin of Typical Difficulties
Global Status of French
Lack of Exposure to English
Academical Importance
Common Vocabulary
Tenses
Pronunciation
Lesson Ideas
Ways to Engage
Grammar and Vocabulary
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Mohamed S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
Indeed, the difficulties that French... [Read more]
Troubles Faced by Students from China When Learning English - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
If you think of Chinese ESL students it is safe to assume that most teachers would immediately worry about how they should teach phonics to Mandarin speakers. It is also true that the media has portrayed the Chinese accent as one of the most challenging to understand or even get rid of.
Personal Experience
Phonetical Errors
Grammar Challenges
Problems Due to Geographical Origin of Students
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Graciela G. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
Usually, the first thing you will notice as an ESL teacher, speaking from experience, is the difficulty Chinese ESL students face... [Read more]
Peculiarities of English: How it Affects Our Understanding When Learning - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
English as a spoken language has become the international standard for people as a first or second language, whether it be for business, science, or just recreationally. This, of course, means that a lot of people are learning the language as a second language. For anyone who knows English as a native language, you know that it has many difficult learning curves along the way to the true understanding that make for many difficulties in how new learners communicate. This essay will touch on a few examples that people undoubtedly run into when learning English, and why it's so difficult to master.
Reasons to Confusion
Spoken English
Written English
Cultural Issues
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This... [Read more]
Inspiring Students to Embrace English Learning in Developing Countries - TEFL Blog
Minh Huy Hoang
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
In developing countries, encouraging lazy students to cultivate a passion for studying English can be a challenging task. However, with the right strategies and approaches, we can greatly improve their motivation and help them discover the benefits of mastering the English language. This article presents five effective tips to inspire even the laziest of students to love studying English.
Tip 1: Make English Relevant to Their Lives
Tip 2: Implement Interactive and Creative Activities
Tip 3: Foster an Enthusiastic and Supportive Learning Environment
Tip 4: Utilize Technology and Multimedia Resources
Tip 5: Set Achievable Goals and Celebrate Success
Conclusion
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The 4 Most Common Problems Students Face When Learning English - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Alumni Experiences
Prior to starting a class, an English teacher needs to take into consideration many parameters. How many students will I have to teach? How old are they? What are their levels? What knowledge did they already acquire in terms of vocabulary and grammar? What are their nationalities?
Are the students monolingual or multilingual?
Cultural Differences
Similarities and Differences in Language
Cultural Differences
Are you ready to teach students of a different nationality?
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In this blog post, we are going to focus on the problems that an English teacher can encounter when teaching to students of different nationalities and cultures.
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Manon L.
First of all, it is... [Read more]
The Most Common Problems Students in Japan Face When Learning English - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Destinations Teaching Ideas
Japan is a country facing rapid change. Due to an aging population and a scarcity of workers, Japan is opening its borders to foreigners, many of whom speak English. This, along with the upcoming Tokyo Olympics, has led to an increase in demand for English teachers. I currently work in Japan, and have had the experience of teaching English to high school Japanese students for the past year. Over the course of this year, I've learned of many problems that students in Japan face when learning English. Of those, the top three problems for students in Japan are pronunciation, shyness, and large class sizes.
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Differences in Phonology
Students' Reluctance to Speak
Class Size in Japanese Schools
Are you ready to teach English... [Read more]
English Learning Problems For Chinese Native Speakers and Solutions - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Most teachers come to China to teach English with only a general idea about Chinese culture and language which they should have to deal with as soon as they arrive in China. The reason I chose this topic is that I am fluent in Chinese and have experienced Chinese culture in all its facets for over than seven years. But let's not beat around the bush and get down to the nitty-gritty.
Shyness/lack of confidence:
Grammar issues:
Pronunciation issues:
Th: /s/ instead of /th/
V: /w/ instead of /v/ (mostly with southern Chinese)
Lt: /t/ instead of /lt/
Intonation:
Lack of learning structure:
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Ruben M.
Chinese people often seem to be shy or... [Read more]
How Learning Chinese Made Me A Better English Teacher In China - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Alumni Experiences
The following blog post is about an ITTT graduate who shares his story on how learning Chinese helped him to become a better English teacher in China.
What do you call someone who speaks only one language?
"My insights into their language and culture were incredibly helpful."
"Many Chinese are anxious about speaking English with natives - more so than is to be considered normative."
"The best ESL teachers are the ones with experience with the native language of their students."
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Joseph S.
A common saying imparted to me by one of my professors goes like this: "What do you call someone who speaks three languages?... [Read more]
The Most Common Problems Students in Laos Face When Learning English - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Alumni Experiences
Learning a second language is never easy but the problems that each learner faces are not all the same. Sometimes the grammar of your first language is completely different from your second language. There might be sounds you do not know how to make because your first language does not have them. You might have limited access to fluent speakers of the language you are learning. All of these are true for Lao learners trying to acquire English as a second language.
"Teaching students new vocabulary and how to pronounce it requires patience and creativity."
"Spoken and written grammar are huge hurdles."
"The Lao writing system is completely different compared to English."
"The exposure to English is very limited in Laos."
Are you ready to teach English... [Read more]
Tips for Teaching Different Types of English Learning Groups - TEFL Blog
Mark Crocker
Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
There are many types of English learning groups and each group requires different teaching techniques. In my opinion, English learners can be divided into 2 groups: beginners and English learners for specific purposes. Beginners can be students who have no English at all or know a few simple structures. They can be children or adults. English learners for specific purposes are students who have a basic English level and want to achieve their specific aims of learning.
Young Beginners
Adult Beginners
English Learners for Specific Purposes
Conversation Learners
Business Students
Examination Classes
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Nhung... [Read more]
Are online English teachers in demand? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Undoubtedly, the demand for online English teachers is surging. With the proliferation of diverse online teaching platforms, students worldwide are accessing specialized English lessons, from one-on-one sessions to group interactions, and from foundational speaking modules to tailored courses for business professionals. This expansive and versatile online English teaching landscape has amplified the need for teachers from varied backgrounds.
Are TEFL qualified teachers in demand in English speaking countries?
Are online English teachers in demand in China?
Yes, TEFL qualified teachers are in demand within English-speaking countries. The online teaching field offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing educators to be based anywhere, from the comfort of their homes to anywhere around the... [Read more]
Several Problems South Korean Students Face Learning English - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
This essay examines English education in South Korea and its socio-cultural problems. The discussion draws on my personal beliefs and experiences. First, the history of Korean education is laid out by illustrating the cultural background of Korean society. Following that, it traces the problems of learners of the English language in Korea and tips on how to improve their learning.
National Background
Education System
Speaking Challenges
How to improve Korean's English speaking
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Nayoung H. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
For a long time, Korea... [Read more]
The Most Common Problems Students in South Korea Face When Learning English - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Destinations Alumni Experiences
Korean learners of the English language face numerous challenges in acquiring the language on a proficient level, although English is introduced to children at an early age. English is incorporated into the primary school curriculum from the age of four, yet only a small minority master the language on a proficient conversational level. Unfortunately, the reasons seem to stem from cultural and social differences, the significant differences between the two languages; Korean and English, and the Korean Educational System is also a contributing factor.
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Problems Relating to Cultural Differences
Problems Relating to the Different Phonetic and Grammar Systems
Problems with English Education in the Korean School System... [Read more]
One More Point of View on the Importance of Stories for English Learning in Early Childhood - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Early childhood is the period from 0-8 years old, it is a time of remarkable growth with brain development at its peak. During this stage, children are highly influenced by the environment and the people that surround them. We can say further that Early childhood education is a branch of education that relates to the teaching of children from birth to the age of eight, therefore covering infancy, kindergarten and the early school years up to grades 3. So how does storytelling come in? Well, storytelling does a lot here because this stage is very crucial to a child's early physical, socio-emotional, cognitive and linguistic development.
Benefits of Stories for Children
Role in Children's' Development
Teaching Ability
Do you want to teach English abroad?... [Read more]
Course Books for Business English ▷ Infographic - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
Business English is an area of English language teaching and learning that is part of the wider category of English for Specific Purposes. Unlike general English, business English focuses on the language students need in order to function in an international business setting. Students taking business English classes will generally already have a reasonable level of English language ability and course books tend to be aimed at pre-intermediate level students and above.
There are several publishers involved in producing course books for the business English classroom. The main ones are Oxford University Press and Cambridge University Press. These two publishers produce business English course books across a range of levels in British, American and International English... [Read more]
Songs as a Tool to Teach Grammar - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
To begin with, I have been teaching English for more than 30 years. I teach groups of students and individuals of different ages and abilities. That is why I have always had a problem how to raise my students' motivation, how to make my lessons interesting and exciting so that the bell at the end of the class would be for me, not for my students. I have always wanted them to be upset that the lesson is over. As a result of this research, I concluded that along with having different games, quizzes, puzzles, crosswords and project works, learning and singing songs is as challenging and helpful as doing grammar exercises. The results of learning English songs by heart is stunning. Do not think that I do this activity only for entertainment. It is a big... [Read more]
Who will my students be when teaching English abroad? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
When teaching English abroad, the profiles of your students can be diverse, influenced by the teaching location and the type of institution you are associated with. You might find yourself guiding university students, professionals from the hospitality sector, or even top-tier business leaders. On another spectrum, you could be in a public school, teaching a young cohort ranging from five to sixteen years old.
Will I be teaching adults when teaching English abroad?
Will I be teaching young learners when teaching English abroad?
Can I also earn extra cash as a private tutor when teaching English abroad?
A large percentage of teachers working in ESL classrooms overseas will find their classes are full of adults of various ages and backgrounds. This is particularly true across Europe... [Read more]
Course Books for English for Specific Purposes and English for Academic Purposes ▷ Infographic - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
English for Specific Purposes is an area of English language teaching and learning that encompasses business English, English for Academic Purposes as well as courses that teach English needed for specific professions. In this infographic we look at course books aimed at teaching English to those in certain professions such as finance, law, tourism, medicine and aviation. We also look at course books available for teaching English for Academic Purposes. EAP focuses on the language and skills needed for students to study in English at university level. As with other English teaching, EAP deals with reading, writing, listening and speaking, as well as vocabulary and grammar but these are linked to the students’ specific study needs such as essay writing.
There are several... [Read more]
Family Relationship Chart: Family Tree Chart with Family Words - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
This chart is great for learning the names of family members in English.
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
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Songs In an Early Childhood ESL Classroom - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
It is a very well known fact that English is a very melodic language, it sounds very soft and children love singing in English. When you keep a certain rhythm, rhyme, and pace, it is very likely to learn faster and better almost any topic.
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Young Learners
The objective would be to sing and to touch the body parts at the same time.
Both engage and practice stages are important during the lesson as they will have to be well balanced and guided.
More Ideas
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Valeria T. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
For a group of very young... [Read more]
Tips on How to Speak English More Fluently - TEFL Blog
Hoàng Minh Huy
Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
In recent years, the number of people learning English has significantly increased due to its importance. It offers various benefits, such as career opportunities, financial stability, and studying abroad. English comprises four essential skills, with speaking being a crucial step in mastering any language. This article outlines strategies to speak English fluently like a native.
Leveraging Technological Advancements
Engaging with Native Speakers
Immersing in an English-Speaking Environment
Conclusion: Diverse Paths to English Mastery
Are you ready to teach English as a foreign language?
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Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials!
First and foremost, technology's rapid advancement aids English... [Read more]